Chiedu Ufodiama,MSci Biochemistry

"I studied Biochemistry (MSci), which was one of the best decisions I ever made."

Chiedu Ufodiama

Current role

After graduating I worked as Team Coach for Future Foundations who were running a youth programme as part of the National Citizen Service Programme (NCS). This involved mentoring 15-17 year olds in completing personal challenges and getting involved with community action projects. In September, I went back University, this time at Hull York Medical School to Study Medicine, and in October I started my business Sustained Sporting Success which is a consulting company focusing on highlighting how amateur and grass root sports clubs can maximise their limited resources.

Outline the course you studied at the University of Birmingham and how it benefited you?

I studied Biochemistry (MSci), which was one of the best decisions I ever made. It not only taught me about science it gave the resources I needed to start the business. From how to write a business plan to effective time management a realistic project targets.

How did you find your first year in Birmingham?

First year was quite good, it was a bit of a shock come exams because it highlighted weaknesses in my revision methods. But it was very easy to meet people and the amount of resources and things to do, meant that you never felt you were missing out on anything.

How did going to University as a whole benefit you?

I was heavily involved with sport at University, playing both university rugby and athletics, becoming club captain for a year in the latter. Through that I made a lot of lifelong friends, and learnt a lot about myself and about what I really wanted to do. I also gained a lot of experience with regards to team management and event planning (I was involved with the planning of BUCS Cross Country Championships in 2011). So I would say University made me able to visualise my true potential and give me some guidance in mapping out how to achieve it - as well as giving me some great friends!

How did you find campus life?

Campus life definitely suited me, I could go from lectures to the track back to lectures then gym and possibly library (at times) as it was all in walking distance. City Centre location is ideal if you want to be in the centre of town, but with the great transport links such as the train station on campus means that you're never too far away!

How did you find living in Birmingham?

Living in Birmingham was brilliant, I hope to eventually move back down when the time is right. It was better than I thought, the student community is very good and you can choose to what degree you are involved with certain aspects of that. I think the council and the university are very good at making students welcome especially with local centres and facilities.

Did you join any student societies during your studies?

I was involved with Rugby and Athletics at the University, and also BioSoc.

Any tips to pass on to students thinking of coming here?

If you love sport at any level, but want a fun and lively environment with the bonus of a great education come to Birmingham. You only get out as much as you're willing to put in. The people I met there are going to connections that I will keep for a very longtime. Come to University with an open mind, and you'll still leave overwhelmed with experience.

What are your aspirations for the future?

Hopefully to become a Doctor, but also to have my company in a very good place and with a decent sized team working with me.